So many things can be learned from the infamous Harry Potter series. Although set in the magical world (currently still waiting for a Hogwarts letter), J.K. Rowling provided countless lessons woven throughout the series that muggles can use in their everyday lives, many of which have prepared recent high school graduates (or Hogwarts graduates even) for new college experiences.
1. How to choose friends wisely
When you’re the famous boy who lived, everyone wants to be your friend. It was up to Harry to decide who was genuine enough and worthy of his friendship (maybe next time, Malfoy). There are so many diverse people students meet in college, and with some trial and error, the best friendships can be found. Otherwise, it’s easy to get caught up in the wrong crowd and find yourself in Knockturn Alley rather than Diagon Alley.
2. Don’t base your own thoughts on other people’s opinions.
Word on the street was that Sirius Black was a “murdera” (in the wise words of Stan Shunpike) that killed Harry’s parents. Now, who wouldn’t hate someone who killed their parents? Completely understandable, except for the fact that they were all completely false rumors. What was once a strong hatred, strong enough that Harry wanted to kill Sirius, became a loving, compassionate relationship. Sirius became the only family Harry had left as his godfather. It’s easy to believe everything you hear, but forming your own views and thoughts is the way to go, as Harry learned and taught us.
3. School first, always.
Hermione is an excellent scholar without a doubt. Even through the life-threatening adventures she encountered, she always made room for her studies to ensure she excelled. Although students can get overwhelmed with all the opportunities that college has to offer, it’s important to remember to balance the fun with studies.
4. Determination and hard work will pay off.
Voldemort did not make it easy to locate all the horcruxes and destroy them, he actually wanted to live forever. But by not giving up, the trio and everyone else who fought against him succeeded. Though college can be overwhelming and even crush dreams sometimes, it’s important to stay focused with an end goal in mind. Only then can you truly be able to accomplish your goals (and maybe even defeat the darkest wizard of all time).
5. Most people (and elves) have good intentions.
Originally, Harry thought Dobby was trying to ruin his life and career at Hogwarts by trying to prevent him from going to school and trying to get him kicked out. As angry as Harry initially was, Dobby was only trying to protect Harry. Being at large universities (and even small ones), safety is a huge issue that is stressed a lot. Now, don’t go out to the Forbidden Forest by yourself, but believe in others and that they mean well.
6. School will supply you with lifelong friendships (or relationships).
So maybe they all went through extreme bonding situations that college kids and their pals won’t go through, but they still made it nineteen years (and five kids) later. Through all the stress and other (more realistic) adventures, college puts everyone through, long-lasting friendships are not a surprising byproduct. Who knows, maybe you’ll find the Ron to your Hermione or the Ginny to your Harry.
